Too early to start planning for becoming NP?

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I got acceptance notice from an ADN program that begins in Jan. and am excited but already my ambitions (and my previous traumatic experiences of not preparing well enough in advance) are making me already obsess a bit over how to best position myself for the next steps and education paths toward a more autonomous position as an NP or maybe a PA. I know I am putting the cart way before the horse here, but I do feel the march of time going by as I am older than normal for this kind of thing I guess (32y.o). I also don't have much of a social life or anything currently and moved to a total new state without knowing anyone so I am pretty much totally invested in my future career and schooling right now. Any advice? I am looking forward to the time when there are actual in person classes and forming a network with people in the profession so I can just get to learning actual practical things and not having my mind racing to the end all the time...But to the point, are there things I should be preparing for now, and if so, what are they?

Specializes in Nursing.

How about if I get my NP degree in a non-IP state, would I be able to practice in an IP state or are there any issues with that?

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Specializes in ICU, trauma, neuro.

Yes, 

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Specializes in ICU, trauma, neuro.
1 hour ago, myoglobin said:

Yes, 

Also, you will have to obtain an RN, and NP license along with a DEA (if you plan to prescribe controlled medications) in each state where you practice. The state that you earn the degree in does not generally matter. Certain states like California will require academic transcripts and are an extraordinary pain in the XXXX.  You will of course have to obtain board certification that is nationally recognized after graduating from NP school before you obtain any state licenses or DEA's (other than RN of course).  If you have an RN license in a state that is part of a multistate compact and are seeking NP licensure in a different state that is part of the compact, then that will save one step (the RN).  You will also need and in some states like Washington you will need a business license. In California you will need a furnishing license as well before applying for the DEA.

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